Eurrhypara hortulata, more commonly known as the Small Magpie, is one of the most familiar of the Pyralidae, with its yellowish body parts and black-and-white patterned wings. It is very common in the southern half of Britain, becoming less so further north, and flies in June and July.

The larva feeds from a rolled or spun leaf in August and September before hibernating in a tough silk cocoon in a hollow stem or under bark. Pupation occurs in May in the same cocoon, without further feeding. The main foodplant is Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), but Woundworts (Stachys spp.), Mints (Mentha spp.), Horehounds (Marrubium and Ballota), and Bindweeds (Convolvulus and Calystegia) are also used.

www.uknature.co.uk is a website dedicated to showing the immense diversity of UK nature and wildlife. Our vast range of habitats, from lowland arable to snow covered mountains, from storm-ravaged coastlines to peaceful inland freshwater lakes and rivers, from dry, sandy heaths to deciduous and coniferous forests, all these habitats contribute to the abundance of UK nature. We have wild birds in huge numbers either residing or visiting our shores (597 recorded species as at July 2013) and we must also not forget the humble back garden with its grass lawns, flower beds filled with nectar rich flowers, shrubs and trees, all designed to attract huge numbers of insects such as bees, moths, butterflies and hoverflies; and finally the small ponds which provide safe havens for frogs, toads, newts and even slow worms and grass snakes. www.uknature.co.uk is the showcase for my personal passion, photographing uknature in all its glory. I sincerely hope you all enjoy the fruits of my labours.